What is a lavender marriage?

A lavender marriage is a marriage of convenience between a man and a woman, where one or both partners are, generally, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/homosexual" target="_blank">homosexual</a>. These types of marriages were historically used (and in some places, still are) as a way to conceal one's <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/sexual%20orientation" target="_blank">sexual orientation</a> or <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/gender%20identity" target="_blank">gender identity</a>, particularly in societies with strong social stigma against <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/LGBT" target="_blank">LGBT</a> individuals.

The motivations behind entering a lavender marriage can vary. It might be to maintain social standing, advance careers, appease family expectations, or avoid discrimination. Sometimes, both individuals involved are aware and consenting to the arrangement, while in other cases, one partner may be unaware of the other's true orientation.

While the term is more often associated with historical contexts, similar arrangements can still occur today in situations where societal pressure or legal constraints make it difficult or impossible for individuals to openly live as their authentic selves. The rise of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/LGBT%20rights" target="_blank">LGBT rights</a> movements and increased social acceptance have, however, made lavender marriages less common in many parts of the world.